George is preceded in death by both parents, brother, Bob Holbert, and daughter, LinHarriet HOLBERT Obituary. Send flowers. Ennon Baptist Church, 9832 Piscataway Road. Nika Holbert Obituary Nika Nicole Holbert Nashville - Survived by a host of family and friends. com by Levitt-Weinstein Blasberg, Rubin-Zilbert Memorial Chapels on Sep. m. Missing you is the heartache. MILDRED ROBBINS HOLBERT, 88 HANCOCK, N. Nika Holbert Date of Birth: 12/10/1989 - OCA Number: 401381 View Detailed Criminal History Pay Fees . Dying over a bag of weed and nickel bag of white substance. A police shooting that led to the death of Nika Holbert, a Black woman, has sparked a larger debate about best practices by law enforcement and who was in the wrong first in the fateful encounter in Nashville. Ordinarily, this would not be a very newsworthy incident — “Criminal Dies in Shootout” — but we are not living in ordinary times. Born FebruaryRita Elaine Holbert, age 67, passed away Wednesday, December 8th, 2021, at St. Born in Jacksonville, Florida on October 31, 1929, he was a retired educator whose career spanned fifty years; thirty- five in the public schools and fifteen at the college level. Nika Holbert Death - Dead, Obituary, Funeral: Nika Holbert Has Died The cause of death is not made public. A 31-year-old woman, identified as Nika Holbert, was also injured in the shooting. m. Linda Chesney Hancock Holbert – 76, of Strawberry Plains and Kodak, went to her Heavenly Home on Saturday, September 30, 2023, after a courageous fight against multiple myeloma. Holbert gets her purse again and gets back into the vehicle. Warning: Graphic Content Woman driving wanted felon's car shoots traffic-stop cop at point-blank range before he returns fire and kills her The shooting between Officer Josh Baker and Nika Holbert, 31, happened in Nashville, just after 9:30 a. We have talked before about this case (“Nika Holbert and the BLM Myth”), but I must again address the death of Nika Holbert because one of the YouTube channels I watch regularly has featured it. (WZTV) — The woman who died in an officer-involved shootout Friday morning had a lengthy criminal background, FOX 17 News has learned. 408 2nd Avenue North - Suite 2120 Nashville, TN 37201 | Phone. The video shows Baker finding what. 2019 at 1:00 p. Dennis Holbert Obituary. Officer Josh Baker fatally shot Nika Nicole Holbert, 31, around 9:30 a. . Holbert Obituary. She was predeceased by : her parents, Walter Stoutenberg. CONWAY | Wendell Joseph Holbert Sr. March 15, 2021 ·. Email Address: Close Submit. SAMANTHA MAX, BYLINE: Last January, it was Lamon Witherspoon, Nika Holbert in March, Jacob Griffin in May, Antonio King in August and Adrian Cameron in September. He was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church. M. Cloud Hospital. In a separate incident, Nika Holbert resisted arrest before shooting at a police officer who in turn, fatally shot her. HOLBERT, James Edward. Nika Holbert Obituary Nika Nicole Holbert Nashville - Survived by a host of family and friends. 3, Staunton, VA. 2709 Obituaries. Goldie Holbert. Willis Eugene Shoemaker. She. Charity Lynn Holbert Obituary. Nancy enjoyed long drives with her husband, Donnie. Holbert, age 83, of Key West, FL died on Wednesday, June 29, 2022 at the St. John Sivilaylack. Joseph's Hospital, Syracuse. Thomas Holbert Obituary. Metropolitan Nashville Police Officer Josh Baker tased Nika N. Nancy Glynn Holbert Nancy Glynn Holbert, age 79, of Walland, died Sunday, December 4, 2022 at the family home. He was born on September 18, 1957, in Parkersburg, WV. , Ph. D. Elizabeth's Hospital. Officer Josh Baker fatally shot Nika Nicole Holbert, 31, around 9:30 a. Holbert, 31, after telling her to get out of the vehicle, video shows. 9, 1935, in Newnan, Georgia, to the late Charles and. Overview. Saddened that her life ended so tragically. Morris, died Tuesday, June 30, 2015, in her home. November 13, 2023 (68 years old)Holbert, Dennis E. Donald Lee Holbert, 85, was born on June 12, 1938 in Henderson County, North Carolina. The woman, 31-year-old woman Nika Holbert, has died. 25, 2009 MISHAWAKA - Myrtle W. WARNING: The following video may be disturbing to some. Nika Holbert Death - Dead, Obituary, Funeral: Nika Holbert Has Died The cause of death is not made public. Search New Berlin obituaries and condolences, hosted by Echovita. However, the person driving it at the time was not the owner, it was 31-year-old Nika Nicole Holbert. Nika Holbert shot a Nashville police officer last week and was shot to death when the officer returned fire. 87, passed away on February 13, 2022. In Nashville, Tennessee, she was 31 years old when she passed away on March 12, 2021. m. Holbert drove a block from the scene, but ran off the road, officers said. Thomas Eugene Holbert Brighton - Thomas Eugene Holbert, 77, died at 12:51 p. Eugene was a Vietnam War Army Veteran who served. News Actions Facebook Tweet Email "He did everything he could" | Chief Drake defends his officer after fatal shootout Nika Holbert's. Baker, a 14-year veteran, survived with a gunshot to the side of his torso, police said. Holbert, age 83, of Key West, FL died on Wednesday, June 29, 2022 at the St. . A Memorial Service for Dennis Holbert will be at 2:00PM on Saturday, August 6, 2022 at Faith LutheMarch 15, 2021. Sisco Funeral Home, Inc. With heavy hearts, we announce the death of Sheila B. , Graveside Service, Saturday, March 27, 12pm, Greenwood North Cemetery. Authorities at the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) have released videos of Officer Josh Baker and Holbert’s incident. Nika Holbert Obituary Nika Nicole Holbert Nashville - Survived by a host of family and friends. NASHVILLE, Tenn. Let the family know you are thinking. 18, 2009. The Black Lives Matter movement has created what can only be described as a myth of racial innocence. (Eavey) Holbert of Rt. Nika Holbert Nashville -, 12-Mar, Smith Funeral Home. Florence Holbert of Miami Beach, Florida passed away on September 9, 2021. ROBERT M. LOCATION: Parking lot on Brick Church PikeSUSPECT: Nika N. Barbara Holbert Obituary. 'Mort' Holbert, 72, formerly of Morrisville, NY passed away at his home on June 17, 2023 surrounded by the love of his family. Walter Holbert Obituary. 15 to Mar. Metro Police Officer Josh Baker expected to encounter Demond Buchanan at the wheel, so why was Nika Holbert detained?Kathryn Holbert Obituary Kathryn "Marie" (Buley) Holbert November 19, 1933 - November 11, 2020. “I’ve had the. Find an obituary, get service details, leave condolence messages or send flowers or gifts in memory of a loved one. Thurday at Full Gospel Tabernacle, 1010 Parkway Drive, Alvarado. Baker, a 14-year veteran of the department, was Nika Holbert Death - Dead, Obituary, Funeral, Cause Of Death, Passed Away: With heavy heart, we announce the passing of Nika Holbert through social media publications made on Twitter. However, the person driving it at the time was not the owner, it was 31-year-old Nika Nicole Holbert. WARNING: The following video may be disturbing to some. Services are scheduled for 3:00 p. NASHVILLE, Tenn. click link to learn more. April 14, 2021. Baker, a 14-year veteran of the department, was critically. She died at a hospital, according to authorities. Browse Wareham local obituaries on Legacy. earths. 17th, was welcomed into the open arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Dec. Last week, 31-year-old Nika Holbert died in a shootout with Metro Officer Josh Baker that stemmed from a traffic stop. If you have trouble with any of the links above, please contact the user who provided them. On Friday he pulled 31 year old Nika Holbert over. Nika Holbert, 31, was driving the black Chevrolet Camaro, but its true owner was convicted felon Demond Buchanan, 42. 3, 2022, at the Mission at Castle Rock Rehabilitation Center in Green River, Wyo. James Garfield Holbert went to be with the Lord. Download #1 (provided by u/VideoTrim) . Williston, affectionately known as Bud, was born on SepteMarch 15, 2021 admin Latest Ramblings. Police say 31-year-old Nika Holbert was driving the vehicle. She later died at a hospital. Police said Holbert shot Baker in the stomach and that the officer returned. , Harrisburg. NASHVILLE, Tenn. On the morning of January 19, 2016 Mr. (AP) — A police officer was wounded and a woman was killed Friday morning when a traffic stop in Tennessee turned into a shootout, authorities said. Public viewing, Friday, March 26, 2021,1-6pm, Smith Chapel, 706 Monroe St. , 75, of Plymouth passed away peacefully at home on July 23, 2021, after a long, hard fought battle with cancer. D. A police stop turned fatal on Friday in Nashville, Tennessee. Tesla Insurance has angered customers in online posts, including a Better Business Bureau website, complaints to state regulators, and Reuters interviews. The incident began when East Precinct Officer Josh Baker, a 14-year veteran, pulled over a black Chevrolet Camaro being driven by Nika Nicole Holbert after he learned the car’s owner had six. Find an obituary, get service details, leave condolence messages or send flowers or gifts in memory of a loved one. . George HOLBERT Obituary. ShThat was attempted murder. Holbert. She grabs her bag, runs around the car and gets into the driver’s seat. Case: SC1054005 Case Status: CLOSED Defendant Status: CONCLUDED Fees Owed: $1,441. Body came footage released showed Officer Baker found drugs in the car, radioed for backup and attempted to take Holbert into custody. If you have trouble with any of the links above, please contact the user who provided them. It's unclear at this time how Holbert knew Buchanan. Nika Holbert, 31, was driving the vehicle, though it wasn’t clear if she was the owner. James Holbert's passing has been publicly announced by Pivont Funeral Home - Hinton in Hinton, WV. Conn Holbert Obituary. Juanita Holbert Obituary. "Butch" Holbert, 59, of Hummelstown, passed away Tuesday, November 11, 2003 at his home. Nika Holbert, 31, was driving the vehicle, though it wasn't. According to the funeral home, the following services have been scheduled: ServicJohn Holbert Obituary. Nika Holbert, 31, was driving the vehicle, though it wasn't clear if she was the owner. Find an Obituary. Bricker Holbert, and husband of the late M. Share Obituary. HOLBERT (Age 88) D. Body cam video shows the driver, who was identified as 31-year-old Nika Nicole Holbert, running from Officer Baker, then entering the car and being tased. But Lisa Holbert-Gooch, who took. The traffic stop “devolved” into a shootout when Holbert fired at Baker and he fired back, Aaron said. “I don’t think my daughter shot him. Holbert Death - Obituary, Funeral, Cause Of Death 31-year-old Nika N. LAFAYETTE - It is with heavy hearts and a deep sense of grief we share the passing of Larry Don Holbert on Saturday, April 23, 2016. On March 12, 2021 Officer Josh Baker with the Metro Nashville Police Department stopped a car because the owner of the car was showing to have 6 outstanding. James will be forever remembered by his son Jason Holbert; daughters. Louise Starnes Holbert, age 81 of Hendersonville, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, July 6th, 2017. For all the sinless judges and jurors out here sitting on high pedal stools judging! “NASHVILLE, Tenn. Baker alleges he found drugs in Holbert's purse and walked back to his patrol vehicle. Then, she reaches for a gun and fires at the officer. Family and friends must say goodbye to their beloved Nika Holbert of. View Grand Rapids obituaries on Legacy, the most timely and comprehensive collection of local. He was born Jan. Baker was. Guest Book March 12, 2021. , the daughter of Adrian and. Leave your condolences, photos and videos on their. She was born Feb. Nashville - Survived by a host of family and friends. He was born Wednesday, Feb. Nika Nicole Holbert Nashville – Survived by a host of family and friends. In Nashville, Tennessee, she was 31 years old when she passed away on March 12, 2021. 21, 2020, at St. Eugene Wesley Holbert, age 66, of Harrisburg, passed away on Tuesday December 14, 2010 at his home. Subscribe to Our Mailing List! For news, announcements and other court related information, please sign up for our mailing list. According to online records from both Metro and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Nika Holbert's criminal background includes several repeat misdemeanors, including driving with a revoked license and theft under $500. Find an Obituary. On Friday morning, Metro Nashville Police Officer Josh Baker pulled over Nika N Holbert, 31, into a Tennessee car park after noticing that the owner of the car, Demond M Buchanan, had six. Survivors included a number of family members and friends. Kate Holbrook (born January 13, 1972) died August 20, 2022, her mortal life ended by a rare cancer of the eye that threatened for a decade before taking her from us over. The vehicle’s driver, Nika Holbert, was killed during the exchange of gunfire. A native of Madison County, Tennessee, son of the late Willie Ernest and Tressie McMurray Holbert, he was a U. She was born May 25, 1926 in. Born in Auburn, NY on September 7, 1971, Kim was the daughter of the. Holbert, 31, shows the 14-year veteran cop deploying his Taser on the woman while ordering her. Vivian Faye Holbert, 87, of Cleveland, Georgia, passed away on Saturday, Jan. Legacy's online obit database has obituaries, death notices, and funeral services for 19 people named Mary Holbert from thousands of the largest funeral homes and newspapers in the world. Note: this is a bot providing a directory service. RUTH HOLBERT Obituary. Richland , Washington - God, in his infinite wisdom, dispatched His angels on Friday, March 5, 2021, to reclaim one of. On the morning of March 12, 2021, Metro Nashville Police Officer Josh Baker pulled over a Black Camaro. Vickie Danielle Williams. Randy was born 9/13/58 to Janet and. Baker, a 14-year veteran of the police force, explains to Holbert in the video that she was stopped. BAINBRIDGE: Joseph Holbert, 72 of Bainbridge, went to be with his Lord 2:01 pm Thursday, December 31, 2015 at Adena Regional Medical Center, Chillicothe. Obituary published on Legacy. Get Started Helpful Resources Planning Resources Sympathy Advice Search all Nika Holbert Obituaries and Death Notices to find upcoming funeral home services,. Holbert also had a felony drug charge from. CHESAPEAKE- Ada May Holbert, 85, of the 800 block of Canal Dr. Holbert was born on Feb. (615)726-1476. Mr. Holbert, 31, after telling her to get out of the vehicle,. Published by. . Dennis E. Who was Nika Holbert? Nika Nicole Holbert is a 31-year-old resident of Madison, Tennessee with a long criminal record. Lee Christian Holbert Obituary We are sad to announce that on August 14, 2020 we had to say goodbye to Lee Christian Holbert (Hawley, Pennsylvania), born in Honesdale, Pennsylvania. She ended up passing away as a result of being shot. Holbert graduated from Greencastle High School in 1947. She was a model of God’s love, compassion and generosity. , 82, of Hopewell, OH, passed away May 30, 2023 at his residence with his family by his side. Holbert, age 92, died Sunday, December 5, 2021 at his home in Mechanicsburg. CUYAHOGA FALLS - Leslie A. Phillip G. Holbert of Mechanicsburg died peacefully at home surrounded by her family on December 10th after a long battle with Parkinson's Disease. Legacy invites you to offer condolences and share memories of Charity inTennessee woman Nika Holbert killed in shootout with cop. m. When she retreats back into the car, he deploys the taser. October 25, 2023. Officer Josh Baker fatally shot Nika Nicole Holbert, 31, around 9:30 a. The Metro Nashville Police Department released bodycam footage of the shooting death of 31-year-old Nika Holbert during a traffic stop. In September, several local and state agencies teamed up for a multi-day. Carroll was an active. 'Metro Police have released body cam and dash. Heather is a graduate of Clear Lake High School and former cheerleader. The female shot, Nika Nicole Holbert, 31, has died at. He was born October 16, 1921. Saturday, February 18, 2023 at his home. Army VeBEULAH J. Nashville - Survived by a host of family and friends. Like our page to stay informed about passing of a loved one in New Berlin, Wisconsin on facebook. Dennis E. Viewing will be on March 26. 31 to Feb. John W. A Memorial Service for Dennis Holbert will be at 2:00PM on Saturday, August 6, 2022 at Faith LutheDATE/TIME: March 12, 2021, @ 9:30 A. Y. (615)726-1476. Public viewing, Friday, March 26, 2021,1-6pm, Smith Chapel, 706 Monroe St. Bodycam footage shows Nika Nicole Holbert running after the police officer found a bag of what appeared to be marijuana and a white powdery substance Credit: Jam Press. Baker, a 14-year veteran, survived with a gunshot to the side of his torso, police said. At a briefing on the scene, MNPD spokesperson Don Aaron said that Baker was conducting. Tennessee reports more shootings involving police. - Pea Ridge Obituary. When asked about the officer’s actions in a shootout that left him critically injured and 31-year-old Nika Holbert dead, he said he thinks Baker did everything he could. , M. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with a visitation beginning one hour prior to the services. Charged/Cited Offense. Footage of the Friday morning encounter shows the 14-year veteran cop deploying his Taser on the woman while ordering her to get out of a car. JAMES HOLBERT Obituary. Baker, a 14-year veteran of the department, was critically. Holbert’s car later ran. . Subscribe to Our Mailing List! For news, announcements and other court related information, please sign up for our mailing list. A rap sheet released by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has. 27, 1935, in Mt. Public viewing, Friday, March 26, 2021,1-6pm, Smith Chapel, 706 Monroe St. Ronald "Ron" Holbert, 69 a native of Macfarlan, West Virginia and resident of Raceland, La. Trina Marie (Fox) Holbert, 48, of Crestline, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, August 30, 2021. Submit an obit for publication in any local newspaper and on Legacy. The mother of Nika Holbert, pictured at high school and during last week’s fatal police confrontation, says her daughter was in the wrong The mother of a woman filmed being fatally shot by a. Send flowers. Downloads. . Hospice of Southwest Ohio, at the Drake Center in Cincinnati. Winifred Jeanne Holbert Obituary We are sad to announce that on October 20, 2022, at the age of 96, Winifred Jeanne Holbert of Hershey, Pennsylvania passed away. Nika N. Rex Holbert Obituary. . As states broaden legal gun ownership, perceived threats to police can increase. Memorial services will be held at Mt. Officer Josh Baker is recovering at a Nashville hospital and is stable condition. Metro Nashville Police Officer Josh Baker pulled over a vehicle because the owner was wanted on six outstanding warrants, police spokesman Don Aaron told news outlets. AUBURN - Kimberly A. The 14-year veteran was in. She also has. Memoriam Renee Ann Holbert 3/12/ 1960 - 5/24/ 2006 "Missing You" Remembering you is easy, I do it every day. Public viewing, Friday, March 26, 2021,1-6pm, Smith Chapel, 706 Monroe St. He served his country in the United States Air Force from. Morris, Pa. D. Dennis E. Leave your condolences, photos and videos on their. If not, you'll go to jail. James Holbert Obituary. Murfreesboro, Tennessee. . Investigators said Nika Holbert, 31, shot Baker in the stomach during a traffic stop Friday morning and he returned fire. after pulling over the Chevrolet Camaro she was driving. That's when everything escalated. Holbert, the son of Dr. Holbert, 86, of Waynesboro, VA, passed away Monday, March 29, 2021. The usual suspects are trying to incite riots, but I haven't read that any have taken place. HOLBERT, George Age 87, of Brookville, passed away Tuesday, June 20, 2017 at Siena Woods following a brief illness. Smith Funeral Directors. Nika Holbert Death - Dead, Obituary, Funeral: Nika Holbert Has Died The cause of death is not made public. Holbert. “I’ve had the. Joshua "Josh" Paul Holbert, 35, of Hendersonville passed away Friday, November 1, 2019 at his home. The car she was driving is registered to an individual with several drug warrants. Officer Josh Baker is recovering at a Nashville hospital and is stable condition. KISSIMMEE, FL: Dean L. The woman who died in an officer-involved shootout Friday morning had a lengthy criminal background, FOX 17 News. Plant a tree Give to a forest in need in their memory Nika Nicole Holbert Nashville – Survived by a host of family and friends. Find service information, send flowers, and leave memories and thoughts in the Guestbook for your loved one. Holbert, Juanita Kitty Whittaker Age 59 Omaha. Altmeyer Funeral Home is assisting the family. Holbert ZANESVILLE: Harry C. 8, 1954, in Fort Worth to William Columbus Sr. Add a Memory. 12, 2007. The. Holbert was identified as the victim fatally shot by Metro Nashville police officer. Elva was born January 20, 1933 and bec. “I’ve had the. While the encounter continued, Holbert went back to the driver’s side of the car and leaned inside the open door. Barbara Ann Hendershot Holbert, 79, of Mt. The struggle prompts the officer to press the Tazer against the. Original obituary in The Tennessean on March 26, 2021 ~ Nika Nicole Holbert was born on December 10, 1989. Around 9:30 a. Viewing will be on March 26. A police shooting that led to the death of Nika Holbert, a Black woman, has sparked a larger debate about best practices by law enforcement and who was in the wrong first in the fateful encounter in Nashville. Public viewing, Friday, March 26, 2021,1-6pm, Smith Chapel, 706 Monroe. She later died from her injuries. As Officer Baker recovers, FOX 17 News is looking into Holbert's past. News Sports Counties Business Music Advertise Obituaries eNewspaper Legals. A rap sheet released by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has listed multiple offenses committed by Holbert, from driving. Jane Boram, co-chair of the NOAH criminal justice task force, said the MNPD needs to reinforce the need for police officers to follow procedures that de-escalate and avoid the use excessive force when dealing with. Nika Nicole Holbert Death - Obituary, Funeral, Cause Of Death 31-year-old Nika Nicole Holbert died following an exchange of gunfire w/ Metro #Nashville. com by Keohane Funeral Home - Quincy from Jan. Rex Eugene Holbert, 80, of Mishawaka died at home peacefully surrounded by family and friends on Aug. ANNIE M. 17, 1957, she married George E. Family and friends must say goodbye to their beloved Nika Holbert of Nashville, Tennessee, who passed away on March 21, 2021. The police said that Baker found marijuana and a. Let the family know you are thinking of themMetro Nashville Police Department released the full body-camera video of the shootout resulting in the death of 31-year-old Nika Holbert following an investigative traffic stop in North Nashville o…It shows Officer Joshua Baker of the East Precinct conducting a calm traffic stop that suddenly escalated when he attempted to arrest the driver, Nika Holbert. James Holbert Obituary. com by Keohane Funeral Home - Quincy from Jan. It's unclear at this time how Holbert knew Buchanan. Bar Number . Baker was wounded but survived. Kelley was born. Holbert drove a block from the scene, but ran off the road, officers said. m. He attended the Hummelstown High School,. E. VIVIAN HOLBERT Obituary. Officer Josh Baker is recovering at a Nashville hospital and is stable condition. RBP 35: Nika Holbert: A Soul for which Christ Died. Thomas Eugene Holbert Brighton - Thomas Eugene Holbert, 77, died at 12:51 p. Explore London. . He was born Aug. To plant trees in memory, please. m. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family. Holbert reached for a handgun and opened fire on Baker hitting him under his bullet-resistant vest, Police Spokesman Don Aaron said. Myrtle Holbert Obituary. Friday after pulling over the Chevrolet Camaro she was driving. Jason Holbert Obituary. “Nika Holbert's mother says her daughter was wrong for pulling a gun but she is disturbed by the actions of the Nashville police officer who stopped her. click link to learn more. RUTH HOLBERT Obituary. Holbert was born June 26, 1914 in Conway, a son of the. . Nika Nicole Holbert . Latest episode by the Removing Barriers Podcast. Episode 35 In this episode of the Removing Barriers Podcast, we discussed the shooting incident involving Nika Holbert and officer Baker. The video shows Baker warned Holbert that she was about to be tased. A rap sheet released by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has listed multiple offenses committed by Holbert, from driving under a revoked license to public indecency and for using an altered or false document. The most recent obituary and service information is available at the Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Home - Midland website. 16th after a hard. The woman, 31-year-old Nika Nicole Holbert, drove away from the scene after the gunfire and died later from her wounds at a nearby hospital, according to the police. Leave a sympathy message to the family in the guestbook on this memorial page of Zoe E. Williston, affectionately known as "Bud", was born on September 2, 1945, in Taunton MA, to the late Reverend Williston M. com. m. Born in Hummelstown on November 12, 1943, he was the son of the late Ross A. A 31-year-old woman, identified as Nika Holbert, was also injured in the shooting. 2021 has far surpassed the typical number of annual shootings by Nashville police, which has fluctuated between zero and four since the department. It’s effectively given LEO’s cart blanch to search and seizure and criminalizes what is unanimously considered a public health issue.